Abundant Life
When people ask me where to start when reading the Bible, I always suggest one of the four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.) Even more specifically, I like to recommend John. It’s one of my favorites and no matter how many times I read it, I always learn something new. It walks through the story of Jesus’ life and his ministry, and it always leaves me feeling closer to him.
One verse that always stands out to me in this book is John 10:10. It’s a pretty a well-known verse. It speaks about the abundant life that Jesus offers to those who believe in Him. It says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." This verse is a powerful reminder of the purpose of Jesus' ministry on earth and the hope that we have in Him.
In the first part of this verse, Jesus refers to "the thief" who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. This is a reference to Satan, who seeks to destroy and rob us of the abundant life that God intended for us to have. Satan's ultimate goal is to separate us from God and keep us in bondage to sin and death. BUT!! Jesus came down to earth and lived a perfect, sinless life just to counteract this plan and to offer us a way out!!! Talk about love! That is the deepest, truest form of love anyone has ever shown.
The second part of the verse is where we see the hope that Jesus offers. He says, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Jesus came to offer us abundant life, not to just merely exist. This abundant life is available to anyone who believes in him and follows his teachings. This life is not just for the future, but it is available to us NOW in this very moment. It is a life of purpose, joy, and fulfillment that is rooted in our relationship with God.
The abundant life that Jesus offers is not a life free of trials or difficulties. In fact, Jesus himself faced many challenges during his time on earth. However, the abundant life that he offers is one that is characterized by a deep sense of peace, even in the midst of trials. A peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7.) It is a life that is marked by hope, even in the face of adversity. It is a life that is defined by love, both for God and for others.
John 10:10 is a powerful reminder of the hope and purpose that Jesus offers to all who believe in him. He came to counteract the enemy’s plan of destruction and to offer us abundant life. Not just in Heaven, but also on earth. May we all seek to live this abundant life that Jesus offers, and may we make it our mission to share this hope with others who need it.
Challenges:
Read and reflect over this verse. I want you to think about what this verse means to you personally, and how you can truly live your life to the full for God’s glory!
Journal. Think about and write down when you have experienced trials in life and the Lord met you there and gave you peace that surpasses all understanding.
Share this good news! Rejoice in the truth and power that this verse carries and tell it to a friend or a stranger. Have a conversation about this verse and encourage one another to continue seeking the abundant life God has for you!
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the abundant life you have for your children! We praise you and rejoice that Jesus came to earth and overcame death, hell, and the grave! May we live our lives to honor and glorify you in all that we do. Thank you for your Word and that is full of truth, power, and peace! I pray for abundant vision over each person reading this and that we would be obedient to where you call us. Thank you for your goodness and unending love. We give you all the praise! In Jesus’ name! Amen!